Knowledge

What do I need to know about waste from pretreatment processes?

Generally, oil and grease, metals (zinc from the substrate, or the zinc phosphate bath), and pH are the concerns from an environmental reporting standpoint. However, sludge or contaminant buildup in the cleaner and phosphate stages may force regular cleanout of these stages. The waste treatment process is usually a simple pH adjustment and flocculation. However, consult your treatment chemical or waste equipment supplier to assure acceptable results.